Dishwasher Not Draining? Try These 7 Easy Fixes

Is your dishwasher not draining water properly, leaving standing water after every cycle? This common issue can usually be fixed without a professional visit.

Whether you have a GE, Whirlpool, or LG dishwasher, here are 7 expert-approved fixes you can try today.

1. Clogged Filter or Drain Basket

Food debris and grease often clog your dishwasher’s filter. Cleaning it regularly ensures proper drainage.

How to clean the dishwasher filter:

• Remove the bottom rack and locate the cylindrical filter at the base.
• Twist and lift the filter to remove.
• Rinse under hot water and scrub with a toothbrush.
• Reinstall the filter securely.

2. Garbage Disposal Backflow

If recently installed or replaced, the garbage disposal may have a plug blocking water flow from the dishwasher. Food inside the garbage disposal can also block the path of dishwasher drain water.

Fix:

• Ensure the disposal knockout plug is removed where the drain hose connects.
• Run the garbage disposal to clear out food from its hopper.

3. Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose

The drain hose could be pinched or clogged.

Fix:

• Unplug the dishwasher power cord or shut off the house circuit breaker to disconnect electrical power.
• Pull out the dishwasher and inspect the hose.
• Straighten any kinks.
• Blow air through to test for blockages or remove the hose and flush it out.

Here’s a video that shows how to clear the dishwasher drain path:

If you're unable to clear the dishwasher drain path on your own, schedule appliance repair service and we'll sent out a technician to clear the dishwasher drain for you.

4. Faulty Drain Pump

If you hear a humming noise or nothing at all, your drain pump might be bad.

Fix:

Check continuity with a multimeter. If failed, consider replacing the pump.

Here’s a video that shows how to safely replace a dishwasher drain pump:

If you're not completely confident that you can safely complete this repair on your own, schedule dishwasher repair service and we'll have one of our techs replace the drain pump for you.

5. Air Gap or High Loop Issue

An improperly installed drain hose or clogged air gap may allow backflow.

Fix:

• Ensure the hose forms a high loop just before connecting to the sink drain.
• Check the air gap for a clog and clear the clog if you find one.

6. Dishwasher Not Draining at End of Cycle

This may be caused by an issue with the timer or cycle control, especially in GE or Whirlpool models.

Try resetting the unit by shutting off the house circuit breaker for the dishwasher for 5 minutes and then resetting the breaker to restore power.

7. Standing Water in Dishwasher After Use

Standing water indicates unresolved drainage issues or infrequent cleaning.

Fix:

• Clean the filters, inspect the pump and hose.
• Use dishwasher-safe cleaning agents such as Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner monthly to break down buildup.

When to Call a Pro

If these fixes don’t resolve your issue, our Sears Home Services technicians are trained to repair all major dishwasher brands. Book your dishwasher repair online today for fast, reliable service.